This document, Laser Range Safety, is published with the approval of the Range Commanders Council. The contents of this handbook are intended to serve as a guide to the safe use of lasers and laser systems used on military reservations and in military controlled areas. This edition of the 316 has been extensively revised from the previous issue.

Subject term (keyword) listing

Apertures Hazard Zone Laser Radiation Transmittance

Attenuation Lasers Optical Density Ultraviolet Radiation

Exclusion Zones Laser Radiation Radiant Energy Wavelength

This document is applicable to all Department of Defense (DOD) member ranges, operational test facilities where lasers are used, and all DOD laser operations conducted on non-DOD controlled ranges or test facilities. The guidance in this document does not replace other procedures or release individuals from compliance with the requirements of their particular service.

Certain provisions of this handbook are the subject of international standardization agreement, STANAG 3606, Evaluation and Control of Laser Hazards. When any amendment, revision, or cancellation of this handbook is proposed which is inconsistent with the international agreement concerned, the preparing activity will take appropriate action through international standardization channels, including departmental standardization offices, to change the agreement or make other appropriate accommodations.

A companion document, issued under the authority of DOD, is DOD Instruction 6055, Personnel Protection Policy Exposure to Laser Radiation. Its purpose is to provide uniform guidance for the safe use of military lasers and laser systems on DOD military reservations or military controlled areas worldwide. Copies of this document may be obtained through DOD publication channels. Other federal agencies and the public may obtain copies from:

This handbook provides uniform evaluation guidance for the safe use of military lasers and laser systems on worldwide Range Commanders Council (RCC) military reservations or military controlled areas. Each military service has previously established normal procedures for approving laser ranges. This guidance is intended to supplement these procedures. It does not replace those procedures or release individuals from compliance with the requirements of their particular service. The authority for guidance is the Laser System Safety Working Group (LSSWG) established by DODI 5000.1 and Range Commanders Council. Guidance for lasers not addressed here should be obtained from the LSSWG through respective service health and safety organizations listed in Paragraph 1.2.

1.2 Application

This handbook applies to:

All RCC ranges or operational test facilities where lasers are used and all RCC laser operations conducted on non-DOD controlled ranges or test facilities.

Laser systems which have been evaluated by the DOD Laser Safety Review Board health and safety specialists for your respective service.

High energy laser systems (lasers capable of cutting material or burning standard target material) require unique control measures. Use of these lasers must be approved by the local Laser Safety Officer (LSO) in coordination with the specialists designated in paragraph 1.2.

1.5 Broad Beam Lasers

Lasers with broad beam or autonomous scanning systems that are not directly under the operator's control may require additional evaluation assistance from the organizations listed in paragraph 1.2.

1.6 Force-On-Force Exercises

Force-on-force exercises using lasers and laser devices are special cases requiring additional controls. Exceptions are training lasers such as the Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES) which is addressed in Appendix B. These force-on-force lasers must be addressed on an individual basis by the local LSO with assistance from the service component safety and health specialist designated in paragraph 1.2.

This handbook contains appendixes, which give general and detailed policies to be followed in evaluating and recommending laser range safety procedures. Appendix A provides safety hazard control data for specific laser systems evaluated by each of the service safety specialists. Appendix B furnishes safety information on lasers used for scoring tactical exercises. Appendix C summarizes safety data for gunnery training systems and simulators. Appendix D is a sample of a laser safety standard operating procedure (SOP). Appendix E describes the equations used to determine Laser Surface Danger Zones (LSDZ)/Nominal Hazard Zones (NHZ). Appendix F contains checklists to be used for the laser safety pre-survey, the site survey, and the laser range safety evaluation reports. Appendix G discusses methods for evaluating hazards from specular reflections of the laser beam. Appendix H deals with safety policy for at-sea operations against ship towed targets and separate targets (SEPTAR). Appendix I addresses procedures for obtaining approval from the Space Command Control Center for Space Directed Emissions.

The documents listed below are referenced in Chapters 3, 4, and 5 of this standard. This list does not include documents cited in other sections of this document or recommended for additional information or as examples. While every effort has been made to ensure the completeness of this list, document users are cautioned that they must meet all specified requirements of the documents cited in Chapters 3, 4, and 5, whether or not they are listed below.

Copies of specifications, standards, handbooks, drawings, publications, and other government documents required by contractors in connection with specific acquisition functions should be obtained from the contracting activity or as directed by the contracting officer.

The following document applies to the extent specified in this document. Unless otherwise specified, documents which are DOD adopted are those listed in the latest issue of the DODISS cited in the solicitation. Documents not listed in the DODISS are the issues of the documents cited in the solicitation.

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARDS INSTITUTE (ANSI)

ANSI Z136.1 Safe Use of Lasers

Copies of this document may be obtained through DOD publication channels for government activities. For all others, requests for copies should be addressed to American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 1430 Broadway, New York, New York.

2.4 Order of Precedence

In the event of a conflict between the text of this standard and the references cited, the conflict will be referred to the military service specialists referenced in Chapter 1, Paragraph 1.2 of this document who have jurisdiction over the laser range. Nothing in this standard shall supersede applicable laws and regulations unless a specific exemption has been obtained.

The following definitions and terms are used in this handbook. For other definitions associated with laser safety, refer to ANSI Z136.1, Safe Use of Lasers.

Aircraft Exclusion Zone. A cone around the laser line-of-sight (LOS) that is 20 times the buffer angle. Laser operations must stop when another aircraft enters this zone.

Aperture. Any opening in the protective housing, shielding, or other enclosure of a laser product through which laser or collateral radiation is emitted, thereby, allowing human exposure to such radiation.

Attenuation. The decrease in the energy of any optical radiation beam as it passes through an absorbing or scattering medium or both.

Beam Divergence. The full angle width of the laser beam measured between the two points at which laser radiant exposure or irradiance in the laser beam is equal to 1/e (36.8 percent) of the maximum value.

Buffer Angle. The angle about the laser's LOS with apex at the laser aperture that is used to determine the buffer zone. As a minimum, it is typically set to five times the demonstrated pointing accuracy of the system plus the beam divergence. (Buffer angles for several lasers are assigned in Table A-1.)

Buffer Zone. A conical volume centered on the laser's LOS with its apex at the aperture of the laser, within which the beam will be contained with a high degree of certainty. The buffer zone is determined by the buffer angle.

Closed Installation. Any location where laser systems and products are used that will be closed or opaque to unprotected personnel during laser operations.

Collateral Radiation. Extraneous radiation such as secondary beams from optics, flash lamp light, radio frequency radiation, and x-rays that is not the intended laser beam as a result of the operation of the product or any of its components. System indicator lights would not normally be considered sources of collateral radiation.

Continuous Wave. The output of a laser that provides a steady or continuous output power rather than a pulsed output. A laser that emits a continuous output in excess of or equal to 0.25 seconds is a continuous wave laser.

Controlled Area. An area where the occupancy and activity of personnel within is subject to control and supervision for the purpose of protection from radiation hazards.

Diffuse Reflection. Reflection from a surface in which the beam is scattered in all directions, for example, a reflection from a rough surface. An ideal diffuse surface in which reflected brightness is independent of the viewing angle is called a Lambertian surface.

Electromagnetic Radiation. The propagation of energy consisting of alternating electric and magnetic fields which travel through space at the velocity of light and includes light, radio frequency radiation, and microwaves.

Exempted Lasers. Military lasers exempted from 21 CFR 1040, Performance Standards for Light-Emitting Products, where compliance would hinder mission fulfillment during actual combat or combat training operations or when the exemption is deemed necessary in the interest of national security. These lasers shall comply with MIL-STD-1425, Safety Design Requirements for Military Lasers and Associated Support Equipment. See DODI 6050.11.

Field of Detection. A volume of space within which a laser detecting system, for example, laser-guided munition, laser spot tracker, or night vision goggles (NVG), may acquire a laser designated target.

High Energy Laser. All class 4 lasers with power of at least 20 kilowatts for more than l.5 seconds or energy of at least 30 kilojoules for less than l.5 seconds.

Infrared Radiation (IR). Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths within the range of 700 nanometers (nm) to 1000 micrometers (µm). This region is often divided into three spectral bands by wavelength: IR-A (700 nm to 1400 nm), IR-B (1400 nm to 3000 nm), and IR-C (3 nm to 1000 µm). IR-A is sometimes called near-infrared.

Irradiance (E). Measure of radiant power in watts per square centimeter.

Joule. A unit of energy, used principally for pulsed lasers, equal to l watt-second or 0.239 calories (cal).

Laser. Any device that can produce or amplify optical radiation primarily by the process of controlled stimulated emission. A laser may emit electromagnetic radiation from the ultraviolet portion of the spectrum through the infrared portion. An acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.

Laser Controlled Area. Any area that contains one or more lasers where the activity of personnel is subject to control and supervision for the protection from radiation hazards associated with laser operation.

Laser Footprint. The projection of the laser beam and buffer zone on the ground or target area. The laser footprint may be part of the laser surface danger zone if the laser footprint lies within the nominal ocular hazard distance (NOHD) of the laser.

Laser Radiation. Coherent electromagnetic radiation produced as a result of controlled stimulated emission within the spectral range of 200 nm to 1000 µm.

Laser Safety Officer (LSO)/Laser System Safety Officer (LSSO). At a particular installation, an individual trained in laser safety who is appointed by the commander to be responsible for control of laser hazards. The term Laser System Safety Officer is used by the Navy to differentiate the LSSO from the Landing Signal Officer (LSO). Each service's regulations will stipulate training requirements for LSOs/LSSOs and may, for example, differentiate among

The individual in the laser user's chain of command who is responsible for all laser issues at the operational level, including but not limited to establishing unit specific laser regulations and procedures and ensuring compliance to the appropriate laser regulations and restrictions of the host facility, that the appropriate operational and safety training for the laser weapon shall be used, maintaining unit laser accountability, and ensuring that all other unit related laser safety issues are addressed.

Range Laser Safety Officer

. Responsible for the physical control of the Laser Range and for its use; including but not limited to establishing range specific Laser Safety Regulations and procedures and ensuring that all users comply with all appropriate laser safety regulations in place at the range. The Range Laser Safety Officer may be from the range installation or a visiting Unit Laser Safety Officer.

Maintenance. Performance of adjustments or procedures to be performed by the user for ensuring the intended performance of the product. Maintenance does not include operation or servicing. This definition is equivalent to the DOD concepts of operator-performed maintenance and organizational maintenance. Organizational maintenance could include firing the laser.

Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE). Laser radiation exposure levels published in ANSI Z136.1 and established for the protection of personnel. These are levels of laser radiation to which a person may be exposed without known hazardous effects or adverse biological changes of the eye or skin. The MPEs contained in ANSI Z136.1 are used in this handbook and are in concurrence with STANAG 3606.

Milliradian (mrad). Unit of angular measure. One mrad equals one thousandth of a radian. One degree equals 17.5 milliradians.

Nominal Ocular Hazard Distance (NOHD). The distance along the axis of the laser beam beyond which the irradiance (W/cm2) or radiant exposure (J/cm2) is not expected to exceed the appropriate MPE, that is, the safe distance from the laser. The NOHD-O is the NOHD when viewing with optical aids.

Optical Density (OD). The following logarithmic expression for the attenuation produced by a filter such as an eye protection filter is

OD = log10 (Io/It)

where Io is the power incident upon the filter and It is the power transmitted through the filter at a specific wavelength.

Optical Radiation. Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths that lie within the range of 180 nm to 1 millimeter (mm). This radiation is often divided into three spectral regions by wavelength: ultraviolet radiation (180 nm to 400 nm), visible radiation (400 nm to 700 nm), and infrared radiation (700 nm to 1 mm).

Pulse Duration. The time increment measured between the half-peak-power points on the leading and the trailing edges of a pulse.

Pulsed Laser. A laser that delivers its energy in discontinuous bursts; that is, there are time gaps during which no energy is emitted. For the purpose of this handbook, a laser that emits a pulse for less than 0.25 second.

Radian (rad). A unit of angular measure equal to 57.3o.

Radiance (L). The radiant energy per unit solid angle emitted by a source

Radiant Energy (Q). Energy in the form of electromagnetic waves, usually expressed in units of joules. Commonly used to describe the output of pulsed lasers.

Radiant Flux or Power (F). The time rate of flow of radiant energy given in units of watts. Used to describe the output power of continuous wave lasers or the average output power of repetitively pulsed lasers.

Radiant Exposure (H). The radiant energy per unit area incident upon a given surface. It is used to express exposure dose to pulsed laser radiation and is commonly expressed in joules per square centimeter or joules per square centimeter per pulse.

Reflectance or Reflectivity (P). The ratio of total reflected energy to total incident energy.

Service. The performance of those procedures or adjustments described in the manufacturer's service instructions that may affect any aspect of the product's performance for which this handbook has applicable requirements. Service does not include maintenance or operation as defined in this section. This definition is equivalent to DOD concepts of maintenance above the organizational level.

Solid Angle (W). The ratio of the area on the surface of a sphere to the square of the radius of that sphere. Solid angle is expressed in steradians.

Specular Reflector. A mirror like reflector at the wavelength of the incident radiation.

Steradian (sr). The unit of measure for a solid angle. There are 4 pi steradians in a sphere.

Support Equipment. Devices or enclosures procured specifically for or modified for laser test, calibration, maintenance, or other support not part of the primary laser mission.

Transmittance or Transmissivity (t). The ratio of total transmitted radiant power to total incident radiant power.

Ultraviolet Radiation. Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths between soft x-rays and visible radiation. This region is often divided into three spectral bands by wavelength: UV-A (315 to 400 nm), UV-B (280 to 315 nm), and UV-C (200 to 280 nm).

Visible Radiation (light). Electromagnetic radiation that can be detected by the human eye. Visible radiation is commonly used to describe wavelengths that lie in the range between 400 and 700 nm.

Watt (W). The unit of power or radiant flux equal to 1 joule per second. Used principally with continuous wave lasers.

Wavelength (l). The distance between two points in a periodic wave that have the same phase is termed one wavelength. The velocity of light in centimeters per second divided by frequency (given in Hz) equals the wavelength (given in cm).

Locate target areas where no line of sight exists between lasers and uncontrolled, potentially occupied areas within the NOHD for aided and unaided viewing.

4.1.2 Remove specular surfaces from targets and target areas. Do not use a laser to designate or range still water, flat glass, mirrors, glazed ice, plexiglass, or other specular reflectors.

4.1.3 Laser beams and the associated buffer zone must be terminated or the radiation level attenuated below the MPE limit within the controlled range or test facility or in controlled airspace. If energy below the MPE is allowed to leave the range, the possibility of optically aided viewing by unprotected individuals must be considered in the safety evaluation.

4.1.4 Lasers should be of the lowest emission level consistent with mission requirements.

4.1.5 On most ranges, some personnel and moving targets are required to be on the range during laser operations for instrumentation operations, munitions impact spotting, and other required activities. The locations of all occupied areas must be determined and evaluated relative to the laser hazard area. The type of laser protective devices required, if any, must then be determined for each occupied location.

Recommended target areas are those without specular (mirror like) surfaces. Glossy foliage, raindrops, fog, snow, and most other natural objects are not considered to be specular surfaces that would create ocular hazards. All reflectors posing a specular reflectance hazard shall be removed from the Laser Surface Danger Zone (LSDZ). Calm, smooth water and clean ice can reflect laser beams, especially at low angles of incidence. Consider these potential reflections when establishing target areas. If these potential reflections have not been considered for the approved target area, ranges shall be closed when water begins ponding on the ground.

Unprotected personnel must not be exposed to laser radiation in excess of the MPE from either the direct or reflected beam.

4.7 Warning Signs

Evaluation of each anticipated operating condition must include development of procedures for ensuring proper placement of warning signs. Local SOPs should provide for the placement of temporary signs during operation. Signs should be in accordance with AR 385-30, SPAWARINST 5100.12B, or AFOSH Std 161-10 (see Figure 4-3).

Form # NAVSEA 1995/17 Stock No. 0118-LF-020-1100

Available from:

Naval Publications and Forms Center

Code 1062

5801 Tabor Avenue

Philadelphia, PA 19120-5099

Order on DD FORM 1348. Provide cost accounting data. Cost $118/package of 5.

Individuals within the horizontal or vertical LSDZ such as moving target operators, support personnel, and aircrew members should wear laser protective eyewear with curved protective lenses during laser firing. The curved lenses are necessary if there is a probability that laser eye protection will specularly reflect the beam into an uncontrolled area. Eye protection with side shields may be required if the laser beam can get behind the lens. Eyewear must be approved for the wavelength of the laser device being fired. A laser filter designed to protect against one wavelength of laser may not protect against harm from another. Appendix A, Table A-3 provides the wavelength and optical density required for the current fielded devices. If more than one type of device is used, protective measures must cover all devices. For devices of the same wavelength, the highest required optical density will be used.

The use of magnifying daylight optical devices to observe the target during laser operation is permitted if flat mirror like surfaces have been removed from the target area. Mirror like targets can be observed only if appropriate laser safety filters are placed in the optical train of the magnifying optics. Protected optics such as sights must be so marked.

Because NVGs provide a substitute for the human eye during night time operations, NVGs must be considered a mission critical item. Devices such as ANVIS or cats eye, MXU-810/U, are designed for aviators and are as important as the aviator’s eyes during night time operations. Although some NVGs will protect the human eye from laser damage (NOTE: Cats eye NVG will not protect the human eye.) The damage threshold for NVGs may be as low or lower than the damage threshold for the human eye. The impact of damaging the aviator’s NVGs during flight could be fatal. Therefore these devices must be physically (optical or electrical) or procedurally protected from laser damage. Many resources exist to determine the safe operating ranges for NVGs and several service-specific points of contact are listed below:

4.11.17.3 run-in headings and flight profiles to be used for airborne laser operations and permissible firing fans for ground based laser operations; and

4.11.17.4 review of mission profiles to prevent misguidance of laser guided weapons (LGW) by ensuring that the LGW or laser spot tracker field of view (FOV) always encompasses the target and does not encompass the space near the laser designator.

When lasers are not in use, hazardous laser output shall be prevented by use of such devices as output covers or rotating the laser into the stow position, unless otherwise specifically authorized by the local LSO. The following subparagraphs should be included in pre and post-firing checklists.

Uses of lasers such as the light detection and ranging (LIDARs) or space probes operating continuously in airspace may require additional controls. Besides coordinating these emissions with the FAA and Space Command, automatic shut down features may be necessary to prevent illumination of aircraft above MPE or to prevent glare danger. These shut down features could be a radar beam which senses incoming craft or an aircraft transponder which signals the laser to shut down (see Appendix I).

Laser guided munitions and other laser detectors have unintentionally acquired radiation sources within the field of detection other than the target resulting in fratricide. Fields of detection vary and are specific to individual weapons. All tactics must be planned to ensure that the angle between the laser designator LOS and laser detectors (for example, laser guided munition, laser spot tracker, and NVG) will not mistakenly aim the munition at the laser source or scattered radiation from the laser platform, see Joint Chiefs of Staff publication 3-09.1 (JLASER).

4.14.1 Ground Laser Designators. When employing laser spot trackers with ground laser target designators, the following procedures will be used

4.14.1.1 Terminal controllers will provide aircrews with an attack heading or laser-to-target line. The attack heading must allow aircrews to acquire the laser energy reflected from the target. Ensure designators for other targets on the range are not using the same laser codes.

4.14.1.2 Because of the possibility of false target indications caused by atmospheric scatter from the laser beam within short distances from the laser exit port, attack headings should avoid target-to-laser designator safety cones unless the tactical situation can safely dictate otherwise. (The safety cone is usually defined as a 20o cone whose apex is at the target and extends 10o degrees either side of the target-to-laser designator line.) The scattered radiation that the seeker can detect may be caused by both Rayleigh and Mie scattering. Rayleigh scattering of radiation from atmospheric molecules is what makes the sky blue. It is strongest for shorter wavelengths (varies inversely by the fourth power of the wavelength) and is about twice as strong at 0o and 180o than at 90o from the laser LOS. However, at 90 degrees, it shows the greatest polarization. Mie scattering from aerosols is very strong in the forward direction of the beam even in the cleanest of atmospheres. It is not as dependent on wavelength as Rayleigh scattering and has no strong polarizing effect.

4.14.1.3 The optimal attack zone is a 50o zone from 10o to 60o either side of the target-to-laser designator line and at an elevation that will ensure adequate target acquisition. The risk of acquiring the laser designator instead of the target in this zone varies from moderate to low as the angle increases.

4.14.1.4 WARNING. The degree of hazard to ground personnel operating the laser target designator varies with the attack angle of Laser Spot Tracker from the laser LOS. See Figure 4-4. In some situations, laser spot trackers have shifted from the designated target to the laser target designator while operating in the 50o attack zone. For this reason, laser spot trackers should not be used as the sole source for target verification. Aircrews should verify they are attacking the target through additional means such as visual description or non-laser target mark. At a minimum, the laser spot cue provided in the cockpit must be evaluated and compared to the expected target location. For close air support missions, the target location given in line 6 of the 9-line brief should be used to confirm the laser spot. For aircraft equipped with an Inertial Navigation System (INS) or Global Positioning System (GPS), steering cues provided by these aids should always be used to back-up the laser mark. Additional aids include, but are not limited to, visual target description, laser pointers, or non-laser target marks provided by direct or indirect fire from conventional weapons. If the laser spot tracker cue is not coincident with the expected target location, aircrew should not deliver ordnance on the laser spot.

To reduce the potential for seeker lock-on to the designator position, the designator should be masked from the seeker field of view. Terrain, vegetation, or other obstruction can sometimes mask the designator.

WARNING: DOES NOT GUARANTEE THAT THE LASER

SEEKER WILL NOT LOCK ONTO THE LASER DESIGNATOR.

When the seeker's acquisition can be monitored by watching the aircraft with the laser spot tracker or seeing a laser guided bomb (LGB), it may be possible to detect an improper lock-on in time to prevent a mishap by aborting the bombing run. See Figures 4-4 and 4-5 for an example of a plan for ground laser designator tactics. Refer to individual Laser Spot Tracker/Laser Guided Weapons technical orders and procedures for additional safety information.

NOTE : Situational check must ensure seeker field of view covers the target and not the area of the laser target designator out to a distance in front of the designator where scatter cannot be detected by the seeker. Because this is an example, details should be obtained from system specific documents and publications such as JCS PUB 3-09.1.

4.14.2 Airborne Wingman Laser Designation. Laser guided weapons (LGW) or laser spot trackers (LST) can erroneously lock onto the scattered radiation from buddy lase or wingman aircraft laser designators. In addition, if the airborne laser designator is pointing towards the LGW or LST, the designator itself may be tracked. In lock-on-before-launch (LOBL) mode, the LGW seeker LOS can be displayed in most launch aircraft. If the LOS cue is well above the horizon, then the missile is probably locked onto an erroneous spot such as the designator aircraft or atmospheric scatter instead of the desired target spot, and the mission should be aborted. If the LGW is employed in the lock-on-after-launch (LOAL) mode, no LGW LOS cueing is provided to the launch aircrew. Wingman designators must be aware that even if a LOBL is planned, launch aircrews train to employ the missile in a LOAL mode if a laser spot is not received once clearance to launch has been given.

4.14.2.1 If the missile properly locks onto the target in an LOBL mode, the only risk to the designator would be a midair potential if the designator aircraft is operating below the missile trajectory apex. In an LOBL mode, the wingman aircraft altitude should remain substantially above the nominal LGW apex altitude, keeping in mind that missiles can climb to altitudes well in excess of their nominal apex values especially if they are tracking a laser designator.

4.14.2.2 When employed in an LOAL mode, the laser guided missile will execute a climbing profile searching for a laser coded energy prior to tipping over and scanning its FOV along the ground. The risk to the wingman designator is highest during the initial staring phase of the LGW profile. If it locks onto the designating aircraft, there is a high probability that it will track and kill the laser designator. The dimensions of the instantaneous FOVs of the LGWs are not absolute, and some are capable of detecting forward or back scattered radiation at many degrees off boresight.

4.14.2.3 The geometry and timing for buddy/wingman lase tactics must be precise to preclude the weapon from targeting the designating platform. Designator profiles behind the launch platform are inherently the safest. If that is not possible, a designator profile must be selected that will keep the aircraft out of the LGW FOV. Figures 4-6, 4-7, 4-8 and 4-9 show examples of laser designator NO FLY CONE profiles. Refer to individual LST/LSW technical orders and procedures for additional safety information. Ensure other designators on the range are not using the same laser code.

NOTE: To minimize risk of fratricide, ensure the target is always in the seeker FOV when the laser designator is on and minimize intersection of the laser seeker FOV with the laser beam especially close to the laser.

Prior to any laser range operations, the hazards of using the system on the range must be fully evaluated. Both the laser user and the range control personnel must mutually agree on the conditions for laser operations. A sample checklist is provided in Appendix F for this data collection.

The range evaluator will review laser system data, maps, targets, instructions, SOPs, and other information provided by the laser user and range operator to determine which existing requirements impact the safety of laser operations on the range such as

A laser range evaluation can be performed for a specific laser system or for a group of similar lasers. An evaluation of a group of similar lasers is recommended if available land permits and the mission is not severely impacted. To perform this general evaluation, the worst case conditions of all possible systems and missions are used. If these conditions are too restrictive, separate evaluations for each system must be performed. The evaluation should be conducted on site at the laser range including a flyover, drive-through, and walk-through inspection. To simplify the range evaluation procedure, it may be divided into five steps: laser; range; target; mission; and laser surface danger zone.

6.1.1.1 Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) Limits. Determine the applicable MPE for the laser being evaluated. The MPEs are provided in ANSI Z136.1.

6.1.1.2 Laser Classification. Classify the laser using the procedures in MIL-STD-1425 to determine what laser control procedures are required such as interlocks and warning labels.

6.1.1.3 Nominal Ocular Hazard Distance. Determine the distance from an operating laser to the point where the laser is no longer an eye hazard by using the procedures designated by the specialists listed in subparagraph 1.2.2 or use the values given in appendixes A and C.

6.1.1.4 Reflections. Determine if the laser is capable of producing hazardous reflections under established conditions using procedures designated by specialists listed in subparagraph 1.2.2 or appendixes A and C.

6.1.1.4.2 Diffuse Reflections. Determine if the laser is capable of producing hazardous diffuse reflections. Lasers that can produce hazardous diffuse reflections are classified as class 4 and have an associated diffuse reflection hazard distance (t). It is unusual for field type lasers to produce diffuse hazards. Presently, only the M60 tank, the M551A1 Sheridan Vehicle, and the OV-10D Night Observation System produce hazardous diffuse reflections. Normally for a diffuse hazard, the beam path out to the distance,t, as provided in Table A-1, is a denied occupancy area and no objects are permitted in the beam path out to this distance.

TABLE 6-1. Typical Reflective Surfaces

6.1.1.5 Optical Density. The degree of protection required to reduce the incident laser energy to safe eye and skin levels must be determined. These levels are available in appendixes A and B and from the designated specialists listed in subparagraph 1.2.2.

6.1.1.6 Optical Viewing. Consider the possibility of personnel directly viewing the beam (intrabeam viewing) or reflections of the beam through optical instruments such as binoculars. The light gathering ability of the optics can significantly increase the degree of hazard for the eyes (increase OD and NOHD). Procedures to evaluate this hazard are in AFOSH Standard 161-10, ANSI Z136.1, and TB MED 524. Some evaluation results are included in appendixes A and B.

6.1.1.7 Atmospheric Attenuation. Atmospheric attenuation can be quite high for infrared lasers operating over distances of 10 kilometers or greater. It can reduce the NOHD considerably and should, therefore, be included in the laser evaluation.

6.1.1.8 Laser Platform Stability. The stability of the laser platform must be evaluated to determine the pointing accuracy of the laser system. The pointing accuracy will determine the size of the buffer angle. The typical buffer angle for airborne (aircraft), ground based, or shipboard stable platforms (tripods) is 5 milliradians, while hand-held lasers normally require 10 milliradians. Paragraph 6.8.1 further discuss the buffer angle.

6.1.2.1 Range Map. The range map is essential to establish accurate distances from target area to range boundaries. The range map should show the boundaries and include geographic items such as towers and buildings. Boundaries of special purpose areas such as an airstrip and the location of the targets are required.

6.1.2.2 Topographic Map. The topographic map is important because it enables the evaluator to determine the elevation of the target area relative to the surrounding terrain. It is important that no portion of the beam, which exceeds the MPE limits, extends beyond the controlled area. Using natural geographic backstops such as hills can control the beam. A topographic map is very helpful in identifying these backstops and in repositioning targets if necessary.

6.1.2.3 Airspace Map. Controlled airspace is that airspace associated with the range having specific, possibly non-coincident lateral boundaries and a specific minimum and maximum altitude. It is important that this controlled airspace and any other special conditions are made known. Laser operations are not normally authorized outside the controlled airspace or when other aircraft are between the laser and the target. In addition, if the beam is directed up, or if hazardous reflections could exceed the height of the controlled airspace, additional controls may be necessary.

6.1.3.1 Optimum Target. The optimum target from a safety point of view is a non-reflective surface. Flat specular surfaces must be removed or covered, because reflections from these surfaces can retain high collimation. A flat specular surface is one in which a relatively undistorted image can be seen. Examples of specular surfaces are windows, Army tank vision blocks, searchlight cover glass, plastic sheets, glossy painted surfaces, still water, clean ice, flat chrome, and mirrors. Snow is not a specular surface, but if thawed and refrozen, hazardous reflections can be found especially at low angles of incidence. Glossy foliage, raindrops, and other natural objects are not hazardous targets since their curved reflective surfaces as well as other curved reflective surfaces cause the beam to spread and the reflected irradiance (energy per unit area) decreases quickly with distance. The only exception is concave reflective surfaces, which can focus the reflected beam and cause the reflection to be more hazardous than the incident beam. Practically, these reflections are of little concern because it is improbable that the surface is perfectly concave (focuses the beam to a single point) or perfectly reflective. Additionally, the focal points of concave reflectors would probably be very close to the object (small radius of curvature) and be of little concern, because people do not normally put their head close to objects and if they did, they would probably block the incident beam. Concave surfaces with a large radius of curvature which could focus at longer distances would appear nearly flat and must be removed or covered. Although curved surface reflection may not be hazardous at typical laser-to-target engagement ranges, large shiny curved surfaces should be removed. An example of such a surface is a curved automobile bumper. Lastly, a diffuse surface is one that totally distorts (or diffuses) the beam shape, normally resulting in a safe-to-view reflection from outside the target area. Table 6-1 lists some common items found in a typical range area and their type classification for reflection. Appendix G provides additional information.

6.1.3.2 Size and Location. The number and location of targets (distribution) will affect the size of the hazard zone. On ranges with limited space, it is important that all targets be as close together as tactically feasible.

6.1.4.1 Air-to-Ground. Determine desired flight profiles. Flight information necessary to perform an evaluation is altitudes, ranges, and directions of the aircraft relative to the target during laser operations. Various terms are used to describe the aircraft direction during ordnance delivery; they include approach track, attack heading, and run-in heading. These headings can be on a single bearing, a range of bearings, and unrestricted approach (360o). Typical mission profiles are

6.1.5 Laser Surface Danger Zone. The LSDZ (also called the buffered laser footprint for airborne and elevated lasers) must be determined using the procedures provided in Paragraphs 6.3, 6.5, 6.7, 6.8, and 6.9.

Careful attention must be paid to the condition of the target and surrounding laser hazard area. Any specular reflectors on or around the laser targets must be either removed or rendered diffuse. Specular reflectors may be rendered diffuse by painting with a flat (non-specularly reflecting) paint. Merely covering a specular reflector is not adequate, because the covering material is usually susceptible to ordnance damage. The position and orientation of any specular reflectors that cannot be removed or rendered diffuse must be noted, so they can be considered during the laser safety evaluation. Generally, specular reflectors larger than .0.5 inch in diameter must be removed from the LSDZ. If this is too restrictive, individual LSOs may refer to the specialists in subparagraph 1.2.2. Target area conditions should be reviewed periodically as determined necessary by local safety authority.

To meet mission requirements, the stability, pointing accuracy, and boresight retention capabilities of a laser rangefinder and designator system must exceed those required for range safety. Described in the following subparagraphs are buffer zones and laser variety.

The LSDZ consists of the target area plus the horizontal and vertical buffer zones (see Figure 6.2) and considers both direct hazards (main beam) and indirect hazards (reflections). The boundaries of the LSDZ depend on which of the two overlapping zones, direct hazard or the indirect hazard, is larger. If there are no specular reflectors on the range and the laser is not a diffuse reflection hazard, there will not be an indirect hazard zone. The direct hazard zone will always exist if laser-to-target distance is less than the NOHD. The LSDZ includes the laser beam plus a buffer zone around the beam to account for laser platform instability. The three types of LSDZs and the dimensions are described in the following subparagraphs.

6.4.4.1 Existing Surface Danger Zones. Existing munitions surface danger zones for direct fire weapons are usually large enough to provide the required horizontal and vertical buffer zones for ground-to-ground laser operations provided the beam is terminated in the impact area (see Figures 6-5 and 6-6).

6.4.4.2 Distance of the Laser Surface Danger Zone. The following combination of NOHD and terrain features must be considered in controlling laser hazards.

6.4.4.2.1 When viewing the collimated beam with a telescope, the hazardous range is greatly increased. For example, a 10-km NOHD would be increased to 80 km for an individual looking back at the laser from within the beam with 13 power optics. Such large amounts of real estate are difficult to control. The solution is to use a backstop behind the target.

6.4.4.2.2 On the ground, this area normally extends to an adequate backstop or the NOHD. Laser operations at targets on the horizon is permitted as long as air space is controlled to the NOHD. In this case, the LSDZ extends downrange to the NOHD in the airspace and to the skyline on the ground as seen from the laser position (see Figure 6-6). Operators and crews will conduct laser operations only at approved targets. Usually, when there are no natural backstops available (for example, mountains), the magnified NOHD-O (O indicates optics) may extend out to extremely long ranges (for instance, 80 km for tank-mounted laser rangefinder (LRF)). This extreme situation would only create ocular hazards if (1) there was a direct LOS to an observer on the ground, and (2) there is a possibility that the observer could be engaged in direct intrabeam viewing with unfiltered magnifying optics.

6.4.4.2.3 Unless the NOHD or NOHD-O has been exceeded, the hazard distance of the laser device is the distance to the backstop. This hazard distance must be controlled. The terrain profile from the laser device's field of view plays a very important role, because the laser presents only a LOS hazard. The optimal use of natural backstops is the obvious key of minimizing laser range control problems.

Figure 6.4. Example laser range danger fan/laser surface danger zone.

Figure 6-5. Vertical buffer zone.

Figure 6.6. Effects of backstops.

6.4.4.3 Buffer Zones. The extent of horizontal and vertical buffer zones around the target area, as viewed from the firing area, depends on the aiming accuracy and stability of the laser device. The laser horizontal buffer zones could partially or completely be included in lateral safety or ricochet areas on ranges where the laser is used with live fire weapons. Table A-1, lists buffer zone values for currently fielded equipment.

A visual survey of the range area is often very useful. The survey should be conducted from actual firing locations and target locations. If the target is used for aerial operations, the range evaluator should, whenever possible, perform an aerial fly-over on the proposed or approved laser run-in headings. A pair of binoculars with an angular calibrated reticle can be used to scan the terrain features to estimate the natural buffer area. Suitable areas should be marked on a current map. Do not rely entirely upon the contour lines on the range map, because they may result in an erroneous estimation of the buffer area. Actual targets should be visually inspected for specular reflectors before their insertion on the range to ensure that these surfaces are removed. Conversion of an impact area to a laser range area may require overflights to observe any glints of sunlight reflecting from broken bits of glass or other reflectors laying on the ground.

Calculate the size of the beam which irradiates the ground or ground-based, sea-based, or airborne target (footprint). Normally, laser beams are circular, diverge equally in all directions, and produce cone shaped beams. The size of the beam depends on the initial beam diameter, divergence, and distance (slant range) from the source. The size of the footprint is the size of the beam plus a buffer zone (see Figure 6.8). For scanning systems, the size of the beam would include all positions in the scan. The shape of the footprint depends on the angle of the beam that intersects the ground. (Slant angle is determined from the range and altitude.) The footprint is determined by buffer angle and size which are described in the following subparagraphs.

6.8.1.1 If the aiming accuracy for a stabilized laser is unknown, buffered footprint angular width will be 5 milliradians either side of the beam.

6.8.1.2 If the aiming accuracy is known, the buffered footprint angular width will be 5 milliradians, or the absolute value of the aiming uncertainty (in milliradians) plus 5 times the beam divergence at the 1/e (.3679) point, whichever is less, either side of the laser beam. Aiming accuracy should be contained in the system specifications.

Laser range safety shall prevent exposure of unprotected personnel from laser radiation in excess of the MPE. This objective can be met by determining where the laser radiation is expected to be, restricting access of unprotected personnel, and removing reflective surfaces from this area.

The laser range safety evaluation should be used to review and to ensure overall range safety regulations are current. Regulations should be developed or updated as necessary to take into account new laser systems, operating areas, and targets.

The SOPs for specific laser devices should inform laser users of the potential hazards from the laser devices under their control during laser operation. Checklists for evaluating SOP are provided in Appendix F. An SOP should be prepared concerning procedures for a presweep of the range before a laser operation to ensure unprotected personnel are not in the target area and to maintain radio communications.

Laser indoctrination should be provided at the same time as the basic weapons systems instruction to students taking advanced individual training and to officers taking basic courses. The classroom instructors must be knowledgeable in operator and crew aspects of laser safety. Reference publications on subject lasers should be readily available. The instruction presented should be at the user level. (Complex scientific data or terminology should be avoided.) A training film, if available, should be included in the instruction program. Hazard data for lasers as incorporated into the technical manual on the related weapon system or on the laser component should be stressed. Proper channels for obtaining professional safety and medical assistance should be addressed during indoctrination.

Fire control laser systems are laser rangefinders (LRFs) and laser designators (LDs). These laser systems can be far more harmful to the eye than laser training devices such as MILES and Air-to-Ground Engagement System/Air Defense (AGES/AD) laser simulators. Consequently, fire control lasers require control measures to prevent permanent blindness to an unprotected individual viewing the laser system from within the laser beam. A sample list of control measures for operators of fire control lasers is provided in Appendix H.

t = distance from the laser in the laser beam path in which there is both a skin hazard and diffuse reflection hazard. Range to be

cleared in front of the laser.

2

s = distance around the target out to which specular reflectors must be cleared

when laser is level or nearly level with target.

THIS HAZARD DATA COULD CHANGE, BECAUSE THE GOVERNMENT HAS NO CONTROL OVER THE MANUFACTURING OF THESE PRODUCTS. THE HAZARD CHARACTERISTICS IN THIS TABLE ARE VALID AS OF THE DATE OF THE GOVERNMENT EVALUATION. PERIODICALLY CHECK WITH THE MANUFACTURER TO ENSURE THE CHARACTERISITCS HAVE NOT CHANGED SINCE THE DATE OF THE LAST GOVERNMENT EVALUATION.

TABLE A-3. EYE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR FIELDED LASERS

Device/Mounting Wavelength Built-in Required Eye Protection

(Nanometers) Safety Filter (Optical Density (OD))

(OD)* Unaided Aided Other Aircraft

TANK MOUNTED

AN/VVG-1(M551a1) 694.3 clip-on 5 5.8 5.8

AN/VVS-1(M60A2) 694.3 clip-on 5 5.8 5.8

AN/VVG-2(M60A3) 694.3 clip-on 5 5.8 5.8

AN/VVG-3(M1) 1064 5 4.7 4.7

AVENGER 10590 0 0

LAV-AD 10600 0 0

LAV-105 1064 4.0 4.7

MAN PORTABLE

AN/GAQ-T1(LD82LB) 1064 YES 4.6 5.5

AN/GVS-5 1064 5 3.7 4.4

AN/PAQ-1(LTD) 1064 4 4.2 5.8

AN/PAQ-3(MULE) 1064 5 3.9 5.6

AN/PAQ-4/A/B/C 830 0 0

AN/PEQ-1 (SOFLAM) 1064 5 4.0 5.3

AN/PVS-6 1540 0 0

AN/TVQ-2(GVLLD) 1064 YES 3.8 5.5

CLD(Compact Laser

Designator) 1064 5 4.5 5.4

LLTD 1064 4.0 4.9

MLRF(Mini-Laser

Rangefinder) 1064 YES 3.7 3.7

* Assume that built-in safety filter only protects against the wavelength of the laser in which it is installed and that it does not always protect against other laser wavelengths.

TABLE A-3. EYE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR FIELDED LASERS (continued)

Device/Mounting Wavelength Built-in Required Eye Protection

(Nanometers) Safety Filter (Optical Density (OD))

(OD)* Unaided Aided Other Aircraft

AIRCRAFT MOUNTED

AC-130U LIA 807 2.7

LTD/RF 1064 3.0

AH-1W Night Targeting

System (NTS) 1064 YES 3.5 5.2

AN/AAQ-22 Navigational

Thermal Imaging System 1064 N/A 4.0 4.0

AN/AAS-33A(A-6E TRAM) 1064 4.6 5.8 3.0

AN/AAS-37 (OV-10D NOS) 1064 5.2 5.6 3.0

AN/AAS-38A (F/A-18) 1064 4.3 5.4 3.0

AN/ASQ-153 (F-4E

PAVE SPIKE) 1064 4.2 5.6

AN/AVQ-25 (F-111F

PAVE TACK) 1064 4.3 5.8

F-117 1064 N/A 4.5 6

LAAT(AH-1F) 1064 YES 3.5 4.8

LANTIRN

(Combat Mode) 1064 N/A 4.5 5.6

(Training Mode) 1540 N/A 0 0

MMS(OH-58D) 1064 4.1 5.3

NITE EAGLE (UH-1N) 1064 4.1 5.2 3.7

PAVE SPECTRE 1064 N/A 3.7 5.4

TADS/PNVS(APACHE AAH) 1064 YES 4.0 5.5

* Assume that built-in safety filter only protects against the wavelength of the laser in which it is installed and that it does not always protect against other laser wavelengths.

TABLE A-4. EYE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR COTS

MILITARY LASERS*

Device/Mounting Wavelength Built-in Required Eye Protection

(Nanometers) Safety Filter (Optical Density (OD))

(OD)** Unaided Aided Other Aircraft

MAN PORTABLE

GCP-1&1A/ACP-2 800-850 1.7 3.6

HAVIS M16 Aiming Light 850 1.1 1.1

LPL-30 800-850 1.7 1.7

M-931 850 0.7 0.8

NITE EYE 980 1.7 1.7

TD-100 850 1.1 1.1

632.8 0.3 0.3

TD-100A 850 1.1 1.1

670 0.6 0.6

AIRCRAFT MOUNTED

AIM-1/(MLR/EXL/D/DLR) 800-850 1.7 1.7

* THIS HAZARD DATA COULD CHANGE SINCE THE GOVERNMENT HAS NO CONTROL OVER MANUFACTURING OF THESE PRODUCTS. HAZARD CHARACTERISTICS IN THIS TABLE ARE VALID AS OF THE DATE OF THE GOVERNMENT EVALUATION. PERIODICALLY CHECK WITH THE MANUFACTURER TO ENSURE THAT THE CHARACTERISTICS HAVE NOT CHANGED SINCE THE DATE OF THE LAST GOVERNMENT EVALUATION.

** Assume that built-in safety filter only protects against the wavelength of the laser in which it is installed and that it does not always protect against other laser wavelengths.

2.5 Eye Protection. Tables A-3 and A-4 summarize the eye protection optical density requirements for worse-case exposure at the laser output (unaided) or when collected with an optical instrument (total). The stated optical densities must be at the laser wavelength, otherwise the stated optical densities may offer very little protection. At longer distances away from the laser, the beam begins to spread out and become less harmful, so less optical density would be required at further distances away from the laser.

2.6 Fielded Laser System Descriptions

AC-130U Laser Illuminator Assembly (LIA) is a near IR illuminator mounted on the AC-130U aircraft (see Air Force Specialists of Paragraph 1.2).

AH-1W Night Targeting System (NTS): This modification is to the Marine Corps AH-1 Telescopic Sight Unit including night targeting capability through the direct view optics using a Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) and Laser Target Designator/Rangefinder system with camera and video tracker.

AIM-1: A Class 3b infrared diode aiming laser (830 - 850 nm wavelength) for use with night vision goggles. The AIM/MLR is mounted on Marine Corps XM-218, 50 caliber, M-60 and GAU-17B machine gun mounts. The AIM/EXL version is hard mounted on the AH-1 turret. AIM-1/D, AIM-1/DLR, AIM-1/MLR, AIM-1/EXL devices are integrated into the army AH-1F helicopter or used separately or mounted on army rifles. The ANVIS night vision goggles provide adequate protection against these lasers. CAT'S EYES do not protect against laser radiation.

Air to Ground Engagement System/Air Defense (AGES/AD) is an extension of MILES to air defense simulation.

AN/AAQ-14: LANTIRN System, Low Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared System for Night. A two pod system containing a terrain following radar (TFR), forward looking infrared (FLIR), laser designation, and later, a target recognition system. This system is designed to be flown on the F-15E and F-16 and the targeting pod is being integrated into the F-14.

AN/TVQ-2 Ground/Vehicle Laser Locator Designator (G/VLLD). The G/VLLD is a principal ranging and laser designating device used by Army artillery forward observers with laser energy homing munitions. The G/VLLD is capable of designating stationary or moving vehicular targets and may be used in a stationary, vehicle mounted, or tripod supported dismounted mode. The primary vehicle mount is the Fire Support Team Vehicle (FISTV).

AN/VVG-1 Laser Rangefinder mounted on the M55lAl Sheridan vehicles.

AN/VVG-2 Laser Rangefinder mounted on the M60A3 tank. Used with two filters, the green Eye Safe Simulated Laser Rangefinder (ESSLR) filter and the red ESSLR filter. The green ESSLR is eye safe, the red ESSLR is less hazardous than the system without filters (see Appendix C).

GCP-1 and ACP-2: Ground and Air Commanders Pointers. Small, lightweight Infrared aiming laser for use with night vision devices in target identification and night illumination. The GCP-1 operates at a power of 30 mw with zoomable beam from 30 o to 0.03 o (approximately 500 to 0.5 milliradians). Built-in sensor prevents operation in daylight; however, it does not sufficiently reduce power in dark conditions to prevent hazardous illumination of unprotected personnel within the NOHD. The GCP-1A and ACP-2 operate at 50 mw and do not incorporate the sensor. The finger mounted ACP-2 is not authorized for use by the Navy and Marine Corps.

Mast Mounted Sight on the OH-58D that, in addition to thermal and optical sensors and imaging instrumentation, incorporates a laser rangefinder and/or designator.

MINI LASER RANGEFINDER (MLRF): A lightweight, handheld Neodymium YAG laser rangefinder. The RCA MLRF listed in Table A-1 is given the designation of AN/PVS-X to distinguish it from future MLRFs, which should not have off-axis radiation that would cause it to have such large buffer zone requirements as the AN/PVS-X.

MILES: Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System . The MILES system uses low risk lasers and does not require service members to wear protective eyewear during the conduct of training with the MILES system.

NMMS: Navy Mast Mounted Sight. The Navy Mast Mounted Sight is mounted above deck for television and IR imaging and incorporates an eye-safe Class 1 LRF used to give range data for high priority targets such as mines, ships, and small water craft.

NITE EAGLE: FLIR/Laser Designator/Rangefinder turret adapted from the Aquilla system for the U.S. Marine Corps UH-1N helicopters. In training and field testing, prohibit laser firing when the laser in flight is less than 1000 meters from the target. This requirement is needed to prevent loss of track and possibility of the beam wandering off the target during slew and reorientation of the laser as the system passes over the target.

NITE EYE: Illuminator for IR camera. Produced by Air Force Phillips Laboratory. Approved only for use with output power below 30 mw.

PAVE PENNY (AN/AAS-35): Laser tracker pod used on the A-10 and A-7 aircraft. Does not contain a laser.

PAVE ARROW (AN/AVQ-14): This was a laser tracker pod developed for use in conjunction with the PAVE SPOT laser designator used on O-2A FAC spotter planes, C-123, and was planned for use on the F-100. It was eventually merged with the PAVE SWORD program.

PAVE BLIND BAT: The PAVE BLIND BAT consisted of a laser target designator to illuminate targets for the PAVE WAY guided bombs. The PAVE BLIND BAT had an effective range of 18,000 feet and was developed for use by AC-130 gunships to aid supporting fighter aircraft.

PAVE MACK: Development of laser seeker head for air to ground rockets. Project was also called LARS (Laser Aided Rocket System) and rockets were to be used in conjunction with Forward Air Controller (FAC) mounted PAVE SPOT designator.

Information in this appendix was obtained from documents referenced in Chapter 2 and from informal documents provided by each of the service's safety specialists in Chapter 1.

3.0 MILES

The MILES is an ingenious system for scoring tactical exercises. Scoring is accomplished through an infrared beam emitted from each weapon and detected by a target which could be a man or vehicle. These systems do not present a hazard during normal field exercises; however, the beam is quite concentrated upon leaving the transmitter and cautionary measures are advised at extremely close engagement ranges. Table B-1 provides cautionary distances within which the weapons may be pointed at the face of another person. Because optical aids such as binoculars tend to concentrate this energy, these distances may be extended when unfiltered optical aids are used. In most cases, greater hazards than from the infrared energy exist during training exercises. In the case of the M-16 rifle, a person would be more likely to receive an eye injury from the impact of the blank fired at close range than from the infrared energy.

4.0 Schwartz Electro-Optic Controller Gun

The controller gun is used with the Tank Weapon Gunnery Simulation System/Precision Gunnery System (TWGSS/PGS) transmitter. The controller gun can simulate the kill codes of various MILES weapon simulators and reactivate troops or weapons systems during training exercises. This is a class 1 device and does not present a laser hazard.

Information in this appendix was obtained from documents referenced in Chapter 2 and from informal documents provided by each of the service's safety specialists in Chapter 1.

3.0 Safety Summary

The Air to Ground Engagement System/Air Defense (AGES/AD), Laser Air to Air Gunnery Systems (LATAGS), and Precision Gunnery Training System (PGTS) for TOW and Dragon missiles are an extension of and are similar to the Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES). The AGES/AD, LATAGS and PGTS systems emit infrared laser beams to simulate various air defense, airborne, and ground weapons systems to improve realism during training. The AN/GVT-1 is a simulator of a target illuminated by a laser; it consists of an infrared laser emitter covered by a diffuser. Table C-1 lists cautionary viewing distance for an eye exposed from within the infrared laser beam for various versions of the AGES/AD, LATAGS and PGTS, and AN/GVT-1 simulators. Since these systems are pointed toward the sky, aimed at a retroreflector mounted on a target in a restricted area, or contained within a diffuser, no optical radiation hazard exists during normal field exercises. Other potential hazards such as posed by the blast simulators must be considered.

Tank Weapon Gunnery Simulator System/Precision Gunnery System (TWGSS/PGS) with modified telescope has a MILES type transmitter (SAAB version). The Target Acquisition and Designation System (TADS), Mast Mounted Sight (MMS) simulators, and the Hellfire Ground Support Simulator (HGSS) (all of which use a 1.54 nm Erbium laser and 904 nm laser diode) comprise the AGES II simulator system. The AGES II is used on the KIOWA 50-caliber gun and rocket simulators and on the wirestrike modification to the APACHE which includes a 20mm area weapon system (AWS) simulator.

JAVELIN Field Tactical Trainer (FTT) is a man portable training system for the shoulder fired JAVELIN antitank tactical weapon system. The FTT is similar in appearance to the actual JAVELIN without the explosive parts. The FTT is a key controlled trainer used during force-on-force training, gunner range qualification, and verification of operating skills in developing JAVELIN gunners. The FTT consists of the Simulated Round (SR) and an instructor station which monitors and records the functions of the SR. The SR includes a laser for simulation of target hits with a MILES compatible laser/detector system for scoring hits.

Laser range finders and designators can cause irreparable blindness if used improperly. Exposure of the eye to either the direct beam or a beam reflected from a flat mirror-like surface can cause an eye injury at a great distance. These lasers will not pose a skin or diffuse reflection viewing hazard. The following control measures will prevent such an exposure when training operators with portable fire control lasers in one-sided exercises.

The laser should never be pointed at any unprotected personnel or flat mirror-like surfaces such as glass.

The laser should be operated only on laser-approved ranges established in accordance with this handbook.

Do not operate or experiment with the laser outside the range area unless it is specifically authorized. The laser exit port will be covered by an opaque dust cover and the laser disabled by removal of the battery when the laser is located outside the range area.

The operator must positively identify the target and buffer areas before laser operations.

Since the target area must be clear of specular reflectors, laser eye protection is not required for laser operators even when viewing the target area with binoculars. However, personnel should never enter the laser hazard area during lasing operations without appropriate laser eye protection. Such eye protection shall have curved lenses.

No special precautions are necessary for firing during rain, fog, or snowfall. Certain ranges may be closed for operation if water begins ponding either on the ground or on snow.

The operator should immediately report to the supervisor any suspected injury or defective equipment (such as misalignment of the laser beam with the pointing telescope) so that appropriate action may be taken.

The SOP must also include general information such as responsibilities, emergency procedures, and the meaning of operational and warning signals.

The references from which these equations were derived are given in Chapter 2.

3.0 Equation Applications

The information provided in this appendix may be used in addition to the service-specific laser evaluation techniques. The equations are the means to determine minimum laser altitude above mean sea level (msl) which will satisfy the safety constraints for use of an airborne laser system on a particular range and at a specified distance from the target. Equations are provided to determine positions of ground based lasers that will satisfy the safety constraints on a given range.

3.2 Shipboard Laser System. The use of these equations in the case of shipboard laser systems would provide pessimistic results. The lack of terrain features to act as a backstop in an open ocean environment, when combined with the longer NOHD of a more powerful shipboard laser system, causes the curvature of the earth to play a significant role in shipboard laser evaluations. The optical horizon from an elevation of 80-feet msl is approximately 9.5 nmi. Because at a range of l9 nmi (the approximate NOHD for unaided viewing of some proposed shipboard laser systems) the propagated beam could not possibly be below 80-feet msl, the use of optical aids aboard other surface vessels would not increase the probability of exposure. It would increase the extent of damage should an exposure occur. It would also require coordination with those responsible for the air space and coordination of satellite space with Space Command, Cheyenne Mountain, Colorado.

3.3.1 Buffered Footprint Definition. The buffered footprint is the projection of the laser beam and its associated buffer zone on the ground surrounding the intended target. The footprint configuration and size are determined by the range from the laser aperture to the target, the incidence angle of the laser beam LOS on the target or range area plane and the assigned buffer angle. Figures E-1 and E-2 show the geometry of the buffered footprint. The footprint of this laser is an ellipse whose width is typically quite small and a simple function of the distance to the target. The spreading of the beam along the ground in the direction of the laser LOS is of primary concern and changes drastically as a function of the aircraft's height above and distance to the target.

3.3.2 Hazard Evaluation Without Specular Reflections. This evaluation should be done for each aircraft heading and should account for slope of the terrain.

3.3.2.2 Multiple Laser Aircraft Headings. If the laser attack will be from several bearings (for example 45o to 135 o), the LSDZ will be a summation of all possible buffered footprints as shown on Figure E-5. If the attack bearings are not specified or attack from any direction is desired, the LSDZ will be a circle with a radius equal to the longest forward or aft buffered footprint dimension for the possible altitudes or slant ranges (see Figure E-6).

3.3.2.3 Level Ground Examples. The following examples are provided as an application of the conditions described previously.

3.3.2.4.2 Falling Terrain in Target Area or Hills in Foreground. This condition will result in longer forward buffered footprints and more restrictive conditions.

3.3.2.4.2.1 Foreground Distances. The height, MSL, or above ground level (AGL) of the laser in reference to the target must be determined for all distances between the laser and target.

3.3.2.4.2.2 Distance Beyond Target. The downward sloping ground beyond the target can greatly extend the forward footprint as shown in Figures E-10 and E-11. If flight profiles are not limited, the forward footprint could be as long as the NOHD.

3.3.3 Specular Reflections. Determine if the reflection from still water can enter uncontrolled air space or hit a hill or ship's structure within the NOHD and beyond the restricted boundaries (see Figure E-12). If this or other specular reflectors appear to be a problem, limit the flight profiles, move the target, or restrict more land or airspace. If still water cannot be avoided or flat specular reflecting surfaces in the area of the footprint cannot be removed, then the aircrew, personnel in other aircraft, ground and shipboard personnel, and the surrounding community need to be considered. If the reflectivity of the specular surface is known, the effective NOHD (distance from laser to reflector plus distance of reflected beam to end of hazard zone) can be reduced by (approximately) the square root of the reflection coefficient. See Appendix G for some reflection coefficients. For each altitude of the aircraft and distance from the specular reflector, a new sphere or linear distance must be calculated for the specular reflection into the surrounding area or air space. Use the worst case results.

3.3.5 Ground Personnel, Shipboard Personnel, Other Aircraft, and Surrounding Community. If flat specular surfaces are near the target, the laser beam can be redirected in any direction as shown in Figures E-15 and E-16. The LSDZ should then be extended to a hemisphere or portion of a hemisphere with a distance from the specular reflector equal to the NOHD minus the minimum lasing distance from the laser to specular reflector. As with the cases described previously, natural backstops and terrain may alter the shape of this area. Airspace over the range, personnel on ships superstructure, or land based high structures may be at an unacceptable risk.

3.3.6 Hazard Distances From Various Reflective Surfaces. Reflection distances can be calculated from the information in Appendix G.

using footprint tables or calculate flight profiles which would not cause the LSDZ to exceed the range boundaries.

For both ground based lasers and airborne lasers, the problem can be broken into two constraints: (1) the buffered footprint does not exceed the available controlled area between the target and the laser (near boundary), and (2) the buffered footprint does not exceed the available controlled area beyond the target (far boundary).

3.4.1 Ground Based Lasers. Determine the ability to keep the buffered laser footprint vertically and horizontally within the restricted boundaries.

3.4.1.1 Vertical Buffer Far Boundary. Addressing the far boundary constraint first, Figure E-17 illustrates the geometry of the problem. First determine the available buffer above and below the target out to the edge of the backstop, where

a

= buffer angle plus beam divergence on either side of the laser line of sight (LOS). For systems listed in Table A-1, the beam divergence is extremely small compared to the buffer angle, so the beam divergence may be ignored.

d

= available vertical buffer angle between laser LOS to target and laser LOS to backstop.

h = altitude of laser

a1 = altitude of far target

bl = altitude of far boundary

dl = horizontal distance on surface from laser to furthest target

A = distance from target to far boundary of LSDZ (backstop)

The angle d may be calculated from

d

= arctan((b1- h)/(d1+ A)) + arctan((h - a1)/(d1))

As long as the angle d remains greater than angle a, the beam is safely contained vertically within the designated LSDZ.

= buffer angle plus beam divergence on either side of the laser LOS. For systems listed in Table A-1, the beam divergence is extremely small compared to the buffer angle, so the beam divergence may be ignored.

g

= vertical angle from either side of the laser, LOS to the near edge of LSDZ (backstop) between the laser and the target.

h = altitude of laser

as = altitude of nearest target

bs = altitude of near boundary

ds = horizontal distance on surface from laser to nearest target

B = distance from target to near boundary of LSDZ (backstop)

The vertical angle g may be calculated from

g

= arctan((h-bs)/(ds-B)) + arctan((as-h)/ds))

As long as the angle g remains greater than the angle a, the beam is safely contained vertically within the designated LSDZ.

AB = available buffer angle in radians left and right of target out to the backstop.

FPN = laser firing position north coordinate in meters

EBN = edge of backstop north coordinate in meters

FPE = laser firing position east coordinate in meters

EBE = edge of backstop east coordinate in meters

TN = edge of target north coordinate in meters

TE = edge of target east coordinate in meters

As long as the angle AB is greater than angle a and is negative for the right edge of the backstop and positive for the left edge of the backstop, the beam is safely contained horizontally within the designated LSDZ.

the minimum altitude relative to target to keep buffered laser footprint within the near boundary when at slant range R from target is

h = Rsin(arcsin((R/B)sin(a)) - a)

where

R = slant range from laser to target

a

= buffer angle plus beam divergence either side of laser LOS. For systems listed in Table A-1 of Appendix A, the beam divergence is extremely small compared to the buffer angle and hence the beam divergence may be ignored.

A = distance from target to far boundary of LSDZ

B = distance from target to near boundary of LSDZ

h = altitude of laser relative to target surface

HL = altitude of laser above Mean Sea Level

HT = height of target above Mean Sea Level

Choose whichever h is the higher number and assign it as the safe altitude for lasing at range R. If altitude is altitude above mean sea level then the required laser altitude is

HL = h + HT

Repeat this calculation for every nautical mile (or fraction of a mile depending on the risk) starting at about 12 nautical miles up to and beyond the target. Then plot the results. Remember as you pass over the target that the far and near boundary definitions reverse. A typical flight profile is plotted in Figure E-20.

N = slant range distance from near edge of near target to edge of near boundary = square root of the sum of the squares of hn and DN

F = slant range distance from far edge of far target to edge of far boundary = square root of the sum of the squares of hf and DF

b

F = declination or elevation angle from horizontal between edge of far target and edge of far boundary = arctan(hf/DF) (positive number for far boundary higher than the target and negative number for far boundary lower than target)

b

N = declination or elevation angle from horizontal between edge of near target and edge of near boundary = arctan(hn/DN) (positive number for near boundary lower than target and negative number for near boundary higher than target)

hn = height of near boundary above or below target

R = slant range from laser to target

a

= assigned buffer angle plus beam divergence. For systems listed in Table A-1 the beam divergence is small compared to the buffer angle and hence may be ignored.

Choose whichever h is the higher number and assign it as the safe altitude for lasing at range R. Repeat this calculation for every nautical mile (or fraction of a mile depending on the risk) starting at about 12 nautical miles up to and beyond the target. Then plot the results. Remember as you pass over the target that the far and near boundary definitions reverse. A typical flight profile is plotted on Figure E-20.

This appendix provides presurvey, survey, and survey report checklist examples that may be used by tailoring or adding items as needed for local situations such as training operations, research, development, or testing.

(h) Firing log/schedule is kept by the range officer in accordance with DOD safety and health record keeping regulations. Yes__ No__

(i) Laser systems will not be activated until the target has been positively identified.

Yes__ No__

(j) All class 3 and 4 lasers shall not be directed above the horizon unless coordinated with all DOD components including US Space Command ((DSN 268-4496, (719)474-4496)) and regional service rep to FAA when lasing outside restricted air space. Has coordination been completed? Yes__ No__

(k) For ground based lasers, all unprotected personnel must remain behind the laser operator. Are these instructions in place? Yes__ No__

(l) Requirement that personnel in other aircraft in the restricted cone around the laser line of sight have eye protection of the proper wavelength and optical density as specified in appendix A of the DOD Laser Range Safety Manual for the specific system or as approved by the laser safety specialists for that DOD component. Yes__ No__

(m) Are there specific written requirements for prebriefing all participants in laser exercises to ensure that remote or wingman laser designators are not located within the field of detection of weapons systems or sensors (for example, laser guided munitions, laser spot trackers, NVGs). All tactics must be planned to ensure that the angle between the laser designator and laser guided munitions is such that the munitions cannot home on the laser source or scattered radiation from the laser platform. Yes__ No___

RANGE LASER SITE SURVEY

1. Laser Safety Officer

_______________________________________________________________

Address

_______________________________________________________________

Phone (DSN)

_______________________________________________________________

2. Is there a laser safety officer on range during laser operations?

Yes ____ No ____

3. Have all of the range personnel involved with laser operations had laser safety training?

Yes ____ No ____

4. Is there a medical surveillance program in place? Yes ____ No ____

5. For lasers not listed in Appendix A, have all of the lasers being used on the range been evaluated by the specific service agency in Chapter 1, subparagraph 1.2.1? Yes ____ No ____

5. a. Does the range laser safety officer have

(1) safety data Yes ____ No ____

(2) procedural information from operational manuals Yes ____ No ____

(3) data on completed recommended actions in the evaluation report from the service agency? Yes____ No ____

3.2 Hazardous Ranges of Reflected Laser Beam. The amount of reflected laser energy and the resultant hazard distance from a specular reflector are dependent on the factors provided in Paragraph 3.0.

A specular reflector cross section that is smaller than the cross section of the incident laser beam will only reflect a proportional amount of the laser energy. With small size reflectors, diffraction effects may also be present, resulting in a larger divergence of the laser beam.

Normally a pane of glass will reflect from both the front and back surface; however, the reflected beams are seldom co-linear.

Curved specular reflectors (see Table 6-1) will diverge most laser beams, so they generally present no hazard beyond a few meters from the reflector. For this reason, personnel in laser restricted areas should wear laser eye protection with curved lenses.

3.2.1 Reflection from Reflector Larger Than Cross Section of Incident Laser Beam. Figures 6-7 and G-1 show possible laser reflection hazards from standing water, while Figure G-2 depicts the possible laser reflection hazard from specularly reflecting objects in random orientations. Shown in Figure G-3 is a worst case example of reflectance from both the front and back surfaces of a flat glass plate. Figures G-4 and G-5 show values of reflectance for fresh and salt-water surfaces. In ascertaining the hazardous range of the reflective laser energy, the second surface reflections are usually ignored for distances beyond a few meters from the reflector. Neglecting second surface reflections, the following equation may be used to determine the hazardous range of reflected laser energy in situations similar to those shown in Figure 6-7.

NOHR = H2/cos() = NOHD x (%P x R|| + %N x R)˝ - H1/cos()

= NOHDx[%P(tan2(-'))/(tan2(+'))+%N(sin2(-'))/(sin2(+'))]˝ - H1/cos()

where

NOHR = Nominal Ocular Hazard Distance from Reflector

H1 = altitude of laser

H2 = altitude of observer viewing reflected laser beam

= angle incident and reflected laser beam makes with a line perpendicular to the reflecting surface (angle of incidence) = arctan(D1/H1) for a flat reflector on flat ground

D1 = horizontal distance from laser to reflector

' = angle of refracted beam in a reflecting media = arcsin(/n)

n = index of refraction of reflecting media

%P = fraction of laser beam polarized parallel to the plane of incidence

If the fractions of the laser beam polarizations are not known, choose the highest reflectivity for the given angle of incidence. Typical values are given in Tables G-1 through G-3. Calculate the value of NOHR for various values of D1 and . Choose the worst case NOHR to restrict airspace, ships, vehicles or projecting land masses.

If the fractions of the laser beam polarization’s are not known, choose the highest reflectivity for the given angle of incidence. Typical values are given in Tables G-1 through G-3. Calculate the value of NOHR for various values of D1 and . Choose the worst case NOHR to restrict airspace, ships, vehicles, or projecting land masses. Table G-4 gives the reflectivity of shiny metal.

SEPTARs may be used for A-6E TRAM, OV-10D NOS, F-111F PAVE TACK, and PAVE SPIKE laser operations in open restricted areas provided

2-nautical mile (nmi) SEPTAR operating area is established with a 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, or 5-nmi buffer zone around the operating area (see Figure H-1) as appropriate for the flight profiles in Tables H-1 through H-5;

no laser operations within 10 nmi of land are allowed when the laser line of sight (LLOS) is directed toward land;

all specular reflectors on the SEPTAR must be removed or covered prior to laser operations;

every person required to be within the operations areas or buffer zone must wear laser protective goggles of adequate protection at 1.06 micron wavelength during laser operations;

the target must be positively identified on the operator's monitor before lasing;

laser operations shall cease if either the pilot or system operator is dissatisfied with target tracking;

lasing shall cease if unprotected or unauthorized aircraft enter the operations area or buffer zone from 0 to 1800 feet above mean sea level (MSL) or between the lasing aircraft and the target;

lasing shall cease if unprotected or unauthorized surface craft enter the operations area or buffer zone;

the aircraft must be at or above the flight profiles shown in Tables H-1 through H-5 for the assigned buffer zone; and

4.1 The target shall be towed no closer than 1000 feet from the towing ship.

4.2 All laser operations shall be conducted on incoming headings of 60 to 90o and 260 to 300o relative to towing ship's heading. If lasing back at the target is required, after passing over it, the outgoing heading shall be in the zones specified above for the incoming headings (see Figure H-2).

4.3 Laser operation shall not be initiated until the laser operator has identified the target under the reticle on the display, and the pilot has identified the target through the optical gun sight.

4.4 Laser operation must cease if the system is not properly tracking the target.

Accidental Illumination - Laser illumination of a satellite payload which was not the intended target, and/or the operation of a laser outside of LCH/PA windows provided by the SCC.

Beam Divergence Half Angle - A parameter which describes the angular spread of a laser beam measured from the beam’s center out to the point where intensity falls to 37 percent of its original value. Typically measured in radians.

Damage - Any physical impairment, either temporary or permanent, of the normal operating capability of a satellite.

DOD Components - A term meaning collectively the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Unified and Specified Commands, the Military Departments, and the Defense Agencies (including national laboratories).

Jitter Angle - The factor which accounts for the mechanical pointing inaccuracies of the laser. The angle, from beam center, in which the beam is located with 96.6 percent probability (2 sigma).

4.1 The Commander in Chief, United States Space Command (USCINCSPACE) is the executive agent for Laser Clearinghouse and, acting through the SCC, is directed by the Joint Strategic Capability Plan to authorize the emission of laser radiation from all DOD or DOD sponsored lasers that have the potential of interfering with, degrading, or damaging any United States or foreign satellite.

4.2 These guidelines apply to all space directed DOD laser facilities, either land based, sea based, airborne, or space based; mobile or fixed including those owned, operated, or controlled by DOD components or by agencies or contractors under the auspices of DOD components. (NOTE: U. S. SPACECOM Laser Clearinghouse is only concerned with lasers which are intentionally directed towards space, that is, lasers used for atmospheric research, satellite analysis, astronomical research, and Ballistic Missile Defense testing.). These guidelines apply to United States non-DOD satellite owner/operators (O/Os) by agreement with the SCC. These guidelines do not apply to allied or foreign satellite O/Os. (If there is an interest in lasing a non-United States satellite, contact the SCC for special procedures.)

6.2 Upon receipt of the LCH Information Sheet (see Attachment 1), determine if a laser has the potential of damaging or interfering with satellite payloads. Interference and damage potential is determined using SCC’s laser threshold data. The laser facility will be notified of the results by use of a LCH Waiver Response letter (see Attachment 2). The JCCDOA shall reevaluate a laser’s waiver status upon notification from a laser facility of a laser parameter change or when laser threshold data change. The JCCDOA shall provide initial guidance to laser facilities on proper message formats.

6.3 Develop, maintain, and operate new LCH software as required. Maintain SCC’s threshold comparison procedures as new sensor technology is developed and more refined analysis techniques are employed. All waivers issued to lasers will be reevaluated whenever the waiver procedures or thresholds are modified.

6.4 Maintain a current database of all DOD laser facilities.

6.5 Receive and respond to LCH PA requests by providing PA safe firing windows using the LCH PA windows message (AUTODIN traffic is preferred, and all message formats are described in SPADOC ICD 2025 and 3225).

6.6 The SCC will compute and transmit the LCH safe firing windows to the requesting site not later than 4 hours before the site firing begins.

6.7 After generating PA safe firing windows, the SCC will keep a watch for space events that could alter previously issued windows. If such an event occurs, the SCC will ask the laser operator to suspend laser firing using established communications. The SCC will recalculate the PA safe firing windows and send the new windows to the laser site. When the new windows are received, the laser site may continue operations.

7.2 Notify the JCCDOA whenever a laser’s parameters are changed using the LCH Information Sheet. The JCCDOA will reevaluate and update the waiver status.

7.3 If required, request LCH PA safe firing windows from SCC using the LCH PA Request message no later than 48 hours prior to the start of actually firing the laser.

7.4 Notify the SCC as soon as possible whenever planned laser testing is postponed or canceled.

7.5 Obtain permission to use a satellite as a target from a satellite O/O if a satellite payload is the intended target.

7.6 Submit within 1 hour of detection a LCH Accidental Firing message to SCC if the facility believes it illuminated the wrong satellite or operated outside of safe firing windows supplied by the SCC.

7.7 Respond within 24 hours of receipt of a LCH Activity Request with a LCH Activity Report. With this report, identify space directed laser emissions for lasers, regardless of waiver status.

7.8 When operations are classified, communications with the SCC will be via the communication channels necessary for the classification level.

LASER CLEARINGHOUSE INFORMATION SHEET

Orbital Safety Officer - CMOC/JCCDOA

FAX: (719) 474-2131 Voice: DSN 268-4496 or Commercial (719) 474-4496

Laser Site:

Section 1: Point of Contact

Name:

Mailing Address:

Commercial Phones:

DSN Phones:

Secure Phones & Type:

FAX:

AUTODIN Routing Indicator and Plain Language Address:

Section 2: Project Data

Project Name:

Project Start Date:

Project Completion Date:

Typical Laser Target (check all that apply)

__Look-Angle __Missile __Star __Satellite

For missile targets contact LCH.

Section 3: Site Geodesics

Fixed Site:

Lat______________deg

Long_______deg

Alt______________kin

Section 4: Laser Parameters

CONTINUOUS WAVE LASERS

Firing Mode Prime

1 2 3

Output Power

(Watts)

Wavelength

(Meters)

Divergence

Half-Angle

(Radians)

Operating

Time (Seconds)

*Output Aperture

Diameter (Meters)

*Jitter Angle (Degrees)

*Strehl Beam Quality (Percent)

*Relative Intensity (Percent)

* To be used by our on-line software, please provide this information if known. Other parameters are required for waiver analysis.

PULSED LASERS

Firing Mode Prime

1 2 3

Pulse Width

(Seconds)

Pulse Repetition

Frequency (Hertz)

Pulse Energy

(Joules)

Divergence

Half-Angle

(Radians)

Wavelength

(Meters)

Operating

Time (Seconds)

*Output Aperture

Diameter (Meters)

*Output Power at

Output Aperture (Watts)

*Jitters Angle (Degrees)

*Strehl Beam Quality (Percent)

*Relative Intensity (Percent)

* To be used by our on-line software, please provide this information if known. Other parameters are required for waiver analysis.

UNITED STATES SPACE COMMAND SAMPLE WAIVER RESPONSE

FROM: CMOC/JCCDOA

Suite 9-101A

1 NORAD Rd.

Cheyenne Mountain AFS, CO 80914-6020

SUBJ: SPADOC Laser Clearinghouse Waiver Response

TO: Laser Site

1. I have evaluated the laser from your fax of 29 DEC. The laser described below is not waived and will require predictive avoidance screening. Please contact me at least 48 hours prior to any lasing so we can compute your open window times.

Type: Pulsed

Wavelength: XXX Meters

Pulse Energy: XXX Joules

Divergence: XXX Radians (half-angle)

Pulse Rep. Freq. XXX Hertz

Pulse Width: XXX Seconds

2. Let me know if I can be of further assistance. I can be reached at U.S. Space Command (DSN 268-4496, (719)474-4496).